April 30, 2018 -
FAQs How can I distinguish between a genuine U.S. coin and a replica? It is often difficult to distinguish between genuine U.S. coins and replicas. The Hobby Protection Act requires that all imitation coins and other numismatic items be permanently...
June 29, 2016 -
Coin dealers and grading services may use these terms in varying ways. Some base their use on the dates appearing on United States Mint product packaging or packing slips, or on the dates of product releases or ceremonial coin strike...
April 10, 2017 -
The 1892 Columbian Exposition half dollar was the first commemorative coin authorized by Congress. From 1892 through 1954, subsequent legislation authorized the U.S. Mint to produce commemorative coins for 53 different events, occasions, or individuals. This resulted in the Mint...
November 10, 2016 -
What is the United States Mint’s position on selling altered U.S. coins? The United States Mint does not encourage or support products that alter the fundamental images on its coins. A superimposed design, especially, is entirely different from the coin’s...
June 29, 2016 -
Always consult with your attorney before embarking on any activity involving reproducing genuine United States coins. Do be aware of existing counterfeiting laws. Counterfeiting laws fall under the jurisdiction of the United States Secret Service and the United States Department...
March 1, 2024 -
Through the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Program, the Mint reflects the rich diversity of the nation and provides a full and fair opportunity for all employees, applicants and customers, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex (to include pregnancy,...
May 28, 2020 -
Colorized Coin FAQs Does the United States Mint produce or sell colorized coins? In 2020, the United States Mint issued its first colorized coins as part of the Basketball Hall of Fame Commemorative Coin Program. The United States Mint has...
February 4, 2020 -
Alloy: A mixture of two or more metals American Numismatic Association (ANA): nonprofit educational organization that encourages the study of money throughout the world. Annealing: Heating blanks (planchets) in a furnace that softens the metal Assay: To analyze and determine...
April 28, 2022 -
Mint marks are letters that identify where a coin was made. They hold the maker responsible for the quality of a coin. When the U.S. used precious metals such as gold and silver to make circulating coins, a commission evaluated...
January 22, 2024 -
Located near the U.S. Military Academy in New York, the United States Mint at West Point stores silver, gold, and platinum bullion, as well as mints: American Eagle proof and uncirculated coins in gold, silver, and platinum American Buffalo gold...
